Michael James, born on May 27, 1979, in Sumter, South Carolina to Samuel, Sr. and Ruby Lee Shannon James. He received his education within the Sumter School District #2 and furthered his studies at F.E. Dubose in Manning, SC. Before his health began to decline, he was employed by Gold Gist and a nursing facility in Hopkins, South Carolina. Michael dedicated his life to serving the Lord, being baptized at just nine (9) years old by the late Brother Leo Harkless. For twenty years, he was a powerful preacher at the Living Church of Christ and a talented singer whose voice inspired many. His sermons resonated deeply, impacting countless lives. In addition to his ministry, Michael cherished spending time with his family and had an eye for style. Pastor Mike was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Hannibal and Lucinda James; maternal grandparents, Clinton and Ruth Shannon and a niece, Hazel James. Pastor Mike sadly passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Sumter, South Carolina. He was a beloved presence in the lives of many, known for his infectious joy and warmth. Michael will be fondly remembered for his lively spirit and unwavering passion for singing and preaching. Pastor Mike leaves to cherish loving memories, his father and mother, Samuel, Sr. and Ruby James; eight siblings, Darryl (Nisey) Bufford of Atlanta, Georgia, Samuel R. James, Antonio (Nakenya) James, Bernard James, all of Sumter, South Carolina, Andre (Latonya) James, of Summerville, South Carolina, Darrick (Christy) James, Amy James, both of Sumter, South Carolina, and Ashley (Nijai) Walker of Columbia South Carolina; Pastor Mike cared deeply for and helped reared his adopted son, Emmanuel Brunson, and adopted granddaughter, Layla Kennedy; godmother, Jacquelyn Lee; and a special friend, Jackie Jenkins; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.